The Crispiest Air Fryer Chicken Thighs You’ll Ever Make!
The Crispiest Air Fryer Chicken Thighs You’ll Ever Make! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Soul Food Cooking on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $10.33 total, $2.58 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 lb Chicken Thighs (bone‑in, skin‑on for maximum crispness)
- 1.5 tsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin preferred)
- 1 tbsp Baking Powder (helps dry the skin for extra crispness; use gluten‑free if needed)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 2 tsp Salt (kosher or sea salt)
- 2 tsp Onion Powder (adds savory depth)
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder (provides aromatic flavor)
- 2 tsp Italian Seasoning (blend of dried herbs)
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika (adds smoky depth and color)
Instructions
Prepare the Spice Blend
In a small mixing bowl combine salt, black pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and baking powder. Stir until evenly mixed.
Time: PT3M
Dry the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs thoroughly with paper towels until completely dry. This removes surface moisture that would steam the skin.
Time: PT2M
Oil and Season the Chicken
Place the dried thighs in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken and toss again until every piece is fully coated.
Time: PT3M
Arrange in Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 385°F (if your model requires preheating). Arrange the seasoned thighs in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for airflow.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 385°F
Cook the Chicken
Air fry for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Time: PT25M
Temperature: 385°F
Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the air fryer, let rest for 3 minutes, then serve hot.
Time: PT3M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 450
- Protein
- 30g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 30g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free (if using gluten‑free baking powder), Low-Carb, High-Protein
Allergens: None
Last updated: April 19, 2026






